National Security & Global Trade Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Mid-Level National Security & Global Trade Associate to join the Regulatory and Global Trade practice of a leading global Am Law firm in Washington, DC. This opportunity is ideal for an attorney with strong experience in customs and import compliance who is interested in advising global clients on complex U.S. and multinational trade regulatory matters.

The role offers the opportunity to work on sophisticated matters involving customs regulations, trade compliance, and government enforcement actions, while collaborating with a highly integrated team serving multinational companies across a variety of industries.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on U.S. customs laws and regulations, including classification, valuation, country of origin, marking requirements, and trade preference programs

• Counsel clients on import compliance programs, supply chain optimization, and tariff mitigation strategies

• Represent clients before U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in matters involving binding rulings, protests, audits, prior disclosures, and enforcement actions

• Assist with customs-related litigation matters before the U.S. Court of International Trade

• Draft legal memoranda, regulatory submissions, compliance policies, and client alerts

• Conduct legal research and analysis on U.S. and international trade regulatory issues

• Collaborate with partners and team members on complex global trade matters

• Contribute to business development initiatives and thought leadership within the practice

Qualifications

• 4–6 years of experience in national security and global trade law

• Strong experience in U.S. customs laws and import compliance matters

• Experience advising clients on trade regulatory frameworks and compliance programs

• Prior experience at an Am Law firm, trade boutique, government agency, or in-house legal department working on customs matters

• Experience interacting with U.S. Customs and Border Protection or other U.S. government agencies is preferred

• Strong analytical, research, drafting, and communication skills

• Ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials

• Active admission to the bar in the jurisdiction of practice

Compensation & Benefits

This position offers a competitive compensation package with a salary range of approximately $310,000–$390,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and geographic considerations. The firm also provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision insurance, retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development and long-term career growth.